Question

what would be a negative consequence of damming a river ecosystem in order to build a hydroelectric dam to generate electricity for a city?

a. less carbon dioxide emissions from burning coal to generate electricity.

b. increased recreational usage of the newly formed reservoir (lake).

c. fewer pollution events caused by the mining for fossil fuels.

d. loss of biodiversity in the destroyed riparian (river) ecosystem.

Explanation:

To determine the negative consequence of damming a river ecosystem, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Less CO₂ emissions from coal burning is a positive environmental impact of using hydroelectric power, not a negative consequence of damming the river.
• Option B: Increased recreational usage of the reservoir is a positive outcome (economic or social benefit) of the dam, not a negative consequence.
• Option C: Fewer pollution events from fossil fuel mining is a positive impact of using hydroelectric power, not a negative result of damming the river.
• Option D: Damming a river destroys the riparian (river - side) ecosystem. This destruction disrupts the habitats of various species that live in or depend on the river ecosystem, leading to a loss of biodiversity. This is a negative consequence of damming the river.

Answer:

D. Loss of biodiversity in the destroyed riparian (river) ecosystem.